Microsoft Schedules Monday Announcement

Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT), the world's biggest software company, said CEO Steve Ballmer will make a corporate announcement later on Monday.

The Redmond, Wash.-based software company didn't provide further details. During the weekend, the company agreed to end its participation in the MSNBC.com website after 17 years. It previously sold its half-interest in the MSNBC cable channel back to NBCUniversal, now owned by Comcast (Nasdaq: CMCSA), the No. 1 cable company.

Microsoft could announce a shipment date for its long-awaited Windows 8 OS or for its Microsoft Surface tablet, which was announced last month.

The company is scheduled to announce fourth-quarter financial results on Thursday. Microsoft shares rose 14 cents to $29.53 in pre-market trading on Monday.